Lake Sidi Boughaba

Sidi Boughaba is a long narrow freshwater lake lying parallel to the coast behind the dune belt near Mehdia, about six kilometres by half a kilometre, fringed with reed, tamarisk and a remnant of cork oak and juniper woodland - a habitat that has almost disappeared from this coast. It is a Ramsar site and one of the earliest protected areas of its kind in Morocco, with a small education centre run for schools. The winter bird list is the reason to come: marbled teal, ferruginous duck and white-headed duck all occur, all of them of conservation concern, along with crested coot, grebes, herons and a large gathering of wildfowl. Marsh harrier work the reeds. Paths run along the eastern shore under the trees and the birds are watched from breaks in the vegetation. It is quiet, close to Rabat, and much better than the beach next door for anyone with binoculars.

Highlights

• A freshwater lake behind dunes - six kilometres long, fringed with reed and tamarisk.
• Remnant cork oak - a woodland type almost gone from this coast.
• Threatened wildfowl - marbled teal, ferruginous and white-headed duck in winter.
• An early reserve - Ramsar-listed with a small education centre.

When to go

November to March for the wintering birds. Half a day.

Things to know

There are no hides - viewing is from paths and gaps in the vegetation. The education centre keeps limited hours. Summer brings few birds and picnic crowds. Binoculars are essential.

Nearby

Mehdia beach and its kasbah are west; Kenitra is east.